Rufous Horseshoe Bat, Rhinolophus rouxii

The rufous horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus rouxii) can be found in China, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, and Vietnam. Although it occurs in all of these regions, most of its population occurs in South Asia. It can be found roosting in hollow trees or caves and prefers a habitat within evergreen forests. It often inhabits temples or old buildings in South Asia.

In South Asia, the rufous horseshoe bat is threatened by cave disturbances caused by tourists, as well as habitat loss caused by commercial logging. In India, is resides in many protected areas including Karnala Wildlife Sanctuary in Maharashtra and Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh, among other places. Outside of South Asia, it is not known whether this species occurs in protected areas, and more information is needed in order to assess its conservation. Currently, the rufous horseshoe bat appears on the IUCN Red List with a conservation status of “Least Concern”.